Holiday Preparation Guide

Vehicles not in use for extended periods require precautions to prevent component deterioration. Monthly vehicle operation is recommended to exercise brakes, driveline, and steering. Please refer to the recommendations provided below to help ensure smooth continuous operation of your vehicles.

Storage Duration – 4 Days or Longer

Follow the steps below to ensure the functionality of the vehicle and long-term health of certain components, including the high voltage (HV) batteries:

• Check state-of-charge in 12V batteries and recharge if open circuit voltage is below 12 volts
• Turn off heater, air conditioner, and any other accessories
• To ensure optimal operation of the electric vehicle, the following storage instructions for the HV system are required prior to storage:
  • Ensure HV battery State of Charge (“SOC”) is between 40% and approximately 90% to help maintain battery life during extended storage periods
  • Recommend storage at temperatures of less than 95 degree F and no greater than 122 degrees F
• Park vehicle with headlights off
• Check coolant levels and freeze protection in all cooling systems
• Drain air brake reservoirs and close the drain cocks
• Turn off the 12V battery switch when storing the bus for more than four days
• Charge the vehicle to 90% SOC every (1) month by turning the 12V switch on before starting a charging session

Storage Best Practices

• Store vehicles indoors if possible, or in dry, well-ventilated areas
• Park away from transformers, trees, and high weeds/grass to avoid damage
• Avoid areas with railroad tracks, paint shops, and smoky industrial areas
• Install wheel chocks if parking on an incline
• Long-term storage without charging: maintain high-voltage batteries between 20% and 80%

Retrieval from Storage Mode

When you are done storing your vehicles and are ready to resume regular operations, please follow the steps listed below:

• Reconnect 12V batteries
• Check the SOC of the HV batteries
• Charge the HV batteries to 90% SOC